Rotorua is surrounded by an abundance of breath-taking natural features. Below are some of our top tips on how to explore and enjoy Rotorua’s most treasured and iconic natural wonders:

Towering Redwoods

The Whakarewarewa forest is an iconic part of Rotorua with its huge California Redwoods. Locals will tell you that ‘The Redwoods’ is the top spot for you to relax, get some fresh air and enjoy some gentle activity all at the same time. The main walking tracks are well sign posted and start and finish at the Longmile Road carpark. A visitors centre and coffee cart at the carpark will give you the information and fuel for your adventure. For those that might like a birds-eye perspective of the magnificent forest you can try the Redwoods Treewalk, an approximately 30 minute walk spanning 21 wooden bridges and platforms suspended between 6 and 12 meters above the forest floor.

Stunning Lakes

Rotorua’s landscape is dotted with many beautiful lakes, all with their own history and significance to the local people. The best way to explore these treasures is with Rotorua Duck Tours aboard their World War II Amphibious Landing Craft piloted by your friendly and helpful ConDUCKtor. Their enlightening Rotorua sightseeing tours are a great family-friendly way for you to learn all about the cultural significance of the lakes while experiencing their beauty up-close. Because a Rotorua Duck Tours tour is amphibious, you will get to see many of central city’s great highlights by road and then splashdown into some of the spectacular lakes that surround the city. Rotorua Duck Tours depart from and return to a convenient central city location, operate in all weather conditions and due to their popularity bookings are essential.

Powerful Geothermal

Getting up close to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua should be on any visitor’s to do list. With geothermal activity being so prevalent around the area, there are many options available to allow visitors to have a close up experience. Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland, located approximately 20 minutes’ drive south of Rotorua, is one such example. Wai-o-Tapu’s centrepiece geyser, Lady Knox, comes to life every day at 10.15am sending steam and boiling water up to 20 metres high. After watching Lady Knox you can explore the walking tracks that make their way through the geothermal reserve affording breath-taking views of the volcanic vistas.